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vocabulary

Definition:

(nou) a listing of the words used in some enterprise (nou) a language user's knowledge of words (nou) the system of techniques or symbols serving as a means of expression (as in arts or crafts)

Phonetic Transcription:

vəˈkæbjʊləri

Examples:

The influence occurs on both of the vocabulary and syntax level.

The word settled in the vocabulary of the american indian population.

The vocabulary word may be elaborated upon as meaning 'effortless beauty'.

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Common mistakes of vocabulary pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners place stress incorrectly on the second syllable, saying "vo-ˈcab-ju-lary". The correct stress is on the third syllable: "vo-ˈcab-ə-lary". Tip: Practice saying "vocabulary" with emphasis on "cab".
  2. Omitting the schwa: Many speakers drop the schwa sound in the last syllable, pronouncing it as "vo-ˈcab-yoo-lary". The correct pronunciation includes the schwa: "vo-ˈcab-ə-lary". Tip: Remember that unstressed syllables often contain a schwa sound.
  3. Incorrect vowel sounds: Some may pronounce the "o" as in "hot" instead of the correct sound as in "go". The US/UK pronunciation is /voʊˈkæbjʊˌlɛri/ and /vəʊˈkæbjʊləri/. Tip: Listen to native speakers to catch the right vowel sounds.
  4. Confusing syllable count: Learners might think "vocabulary" has four syllables instead of five. It is pronounced as "vo-ˈcab-ə-lar-y". Tip: Break it down into syllables while practicing: "vo-cab-u-lar-y".
  5. Mispronouncing the "c": Some may say "voca-ˈbular-y" with a hard "c" sound. The correct sound is a soft "c" as in "cab". Tip: Focus on the "cab" sound to ensure clarity in your pronunciation.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "vocabulary"?

In American English, "vocabulary" is pronounced as /vəˈkæb.jə.lər.i/ with the stress on the second syllable. In British English, it is pronounced as /vəˈkæb.jʊ.lə.ri/, where the second syllable has a slightly different vowel sound.

What is the syllable breakdown for "vocabulary"?

The word "vocabulary" has five syllables: "vo-cab-u-la-ry." Each syllable is pronounced clearly, with the second syllable receiving the primary stress, making it sound like "vuh-KAB-yuh-luh-ree."

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "vocabulary"?

One common mistake is misplacing the stress, often saying "VOC-ab-u-lary" instead of "vo-KAB-u-lary." Additionally, some learners may confuse the vowel sounds in the second syllable, pronouncing it as "cab" instead of "cab."

Does "vocabulary" have any silent letters?

No, there are no silent letters in "vocabulary." Every letter is pronounced, and learners should pay attention to the schwa sound in the unstressed syllables, which can make pronunciation smoother.